Simplify Your Big City Life: Living Well & Spending Wisely

After living in New York City for over fifteen years, I am constantly told by non-New Yorkers- “I could never live in New York. It’s fun and exciting to visit, but all the constant stress is just too much, and it’s sooo EXPENSIVE! Urban living is just too difficult…

Underneath the Hustle & Bustle

To be honest, I always find this assumption rather annoying. While I can’t argue that there are certainly cheaper places to live on the planet, I think many of my non urban dwelling friends would be shocked to learn that I have less monthly expenses than they do, and arguably live a less complicated lifestyle!

While it’s true that city life certainly isn’t for everyone, it doesn’t have to be the stressful money pit that everyone fears. The reality is, you can get into debt, spend too much money, and be stressed out where ever you live! The city doesn’t do that to you- you do it to yourself! Fab & Fru believes that it is possible to enjoy all that the city has to offer while also choosing to live a more conscious, mindful existence—even in the middle of all the hustle and bustle!

Finding the Right Neighborhood

One of the most difficult challenges living in a city is finding an affordable neighborhood to live where you feel at home. When I moved to Boreum Hill, Brooklyn over twelve years ago, my neighborhood did not offer much on the amenities front, but there was something about it- a feeling- that I just fell in love with. It was the people. And somehow even after years of massive gentrification, my now restaurant & boutique filled neighborhood still has that same homey special feeling. I feel like I live in a small town smack in the middle of a giant city!

Many city dwellers on a budget don’t realize that if you do a little research, you can get great deals on typically big ticket items.

So many people move to a neighborhood for location and price, and while these factors are extremely important, if you are looking to simplify your big city life- consider moving to a neighborhood where the people share your similar values and tastes. From the types of shops to neighborly kindness, living in a place where you like the vibe and the people, will not only make you happier- spending time and money in your own neighborhood actually can help you save money…

Shop Locally

Farmers Markets and CSA’s are incredibly popular in most urban areas. Having the opportunity to buy organic groceries directly from nearby farms is not only a way for city folks to have a taste of country life without getting in the car, but because big cities have so much variety- it is actually easier to save money when making healthy, simple food choices.

Make Your Apartment a Home

We may live in smaller spaces in the city, but that doesn’t mean you have to live like you’re moving out next week. Even if you are in a temporary situation, do what you can to make your apartment a home. Get rid of the clutter, hang those pictures on the wall, and make your space your sanctuary.

It doesn’t take much money to turn a house into a home. Believe me, coming home after a crowded subway ride, to a clutter free, homey environment instantly- will calm your nerves!

Walk Your Streets

New York may be the one true pedestrian city in the US, but you don’t have to live in New York or Europe for that matter, to take an evening stroll! If you live in a city, and your favorite restaurant, bar, or grocery store is in walking distance to your house- walk- don’t drive! Not only will you get some extra exercise, you’ll talk to your neighbors more often, and get to see more of what’s actually going on in your neighborhood.

Get a Bike

I visited Minneapolis last spring, and was stunned to find that the Twin Cities have more residents who bike to work (even in the winter!) than anywhere else in the country. Most US cities have added bike lanes to their streets to encourage safe cycling around town. So, what are you waiting for? Even if biking to work isn’t your thing, take a weekend ride and feel like a kid again!

Taking Advantage of What the City Offers

Many city dwellers on a budget don’t realize that if you do a little research, you can get great deals on typically big ticket items. Not only do most cities offer loads of free activities in the summer, but museums, theaters, and music halls often have special deals for those in the know.

In fact, just a couple of weeks ago, my friend Jen’s neighbor told her that the Metropolitan Opera was offering tickets to their new line up for just $27- for one week only. I hadn’t been to the opera in years, and I can’t tell you what a Fab & Fru treat it was!

Bargain Basement Big Apple?

Ok, fine – I’m not claiming that NYC is always a bargain hunters dream come true. But I have found that city life doesn’t have to mean that you’re always on the go, spending every dime in your pocket. So, go discover the Fab & Fru treasures in your own city, and you might not only add to your savings – you just might also add to your overall quality of life!